Ruffled Amazon Sword

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to Brazil and the Amazon basin. Grows submerged or partially emersed along riverbanks and in marshy areas subject to seasonal flooding.

Taxonomy & Genetics: Family Alismataceae, genus Echinodorus (synonym Echinodorus major). A hardy species characterized by an exceptionally well-developed root system.

Physical Structure: Rosette-forming plant with erect, oblong leaves that feature strongly ruffled or wavy margins.

Color & Texture: Leaves are bright light green, thin but durable, with distinct longitudinal veins that create a textured, ruffled appearance.

Lighting & CO2: Requires moderate to high lighting to maintain robust growth. CO2 supplementation is not mandatory but will greatly accelerate growth rates.

Nutrition & Substrate: Heavy root feeder. Requires a deep (6-8 cm / 2.5-3 inches) nutrient-rich substrate, supplemented regularly with iron-rich root tabs.

Water Chemistry: Very adaptable. Prefers pH between 6.5 and 7.5, soft to hard water, and temperatures of 22-28°C (72-82°F).

Space Management & Placement: Grows quite large (up to 50-60 cm / 20-24 inches). Should be positioned as a background plant or a central focal point in large aquariums.

Pruning: Trim away older, yellowing, or damaged leaves at the base of the rosette to encourage new growth from the center.

Risks & Diseases: Iron deficiency quickly leads to leaf child-like chlorosis (pale, translucent leaves). Avoid burying the crown of the rosette to prevent rot.